Innovative accelerated RN-to-BS model: implementation and evaluation

The innovative accelerated RN-to-BS program provides associate degree-prepared nurses a means of obtaining a bachelor's degree in nursing in 1 year. The program development, implementation, retention strategies, challenges, and summary of evaluation data are addressed herein. The curriculum design requires student commitment of 1 day per week for class time, with the majority of the required courses being taught over 7-week sessions. The courses are delivered through a blend of in-class, Web-enhanced, and Web-delivered formats, which allow curriculum requirements to be completed in 1 year. Benefits include limited in-class time, decreased travel, and feasibility to continue full-time employment. A four-prong approach (recruitment, retention, coordination, and financial strategies) was used to support and ensure student success. Evaluation data indicate that the program is creative in its delivery methodology, is of high quality and timely, and has the potential to affect the educational level of the RN workforce.